| Abstract: | In arid and semi-arid regions of the M editerranean, fresh water resources are finite and most of the economically viable development of these resources has already been implemented. The situation has worsened further owing to the increasing population and the associated expansion of urbanization and economic activities, all of which require more water and thus impose a tremen dous strain on this already limited and fragile water resource. Following the traditional technique of increasing supply is questionable. The alternative option is to manipulate the demand side for all water use sectors, particularly the agricultural one, which accounts for up to 80% of water consumption. In the Mediterranean region there is no question about the crucial im portance of integrated demand management aiming at efficiency, equity and long-term water security, using the tools that the legal and econ omic policy, scientific and technological advancement have made available. |
